JRM

I'm glad your doctor caught your melanoma in time and wish you the best for your WLE surgery. With regards to follow up care, I would agree that finding a good dermatologist to add to your medical team is key. While your primary doctor sounds great and is vital for your overall health, a dermatologist is trained at mapping and tracking moles for changes. Since the removal of my stage 1 melanoma in 2013, I saw my dermatologist every 3 months for 2 years. Now, I see her  twice a year along with my primary care phyiscian, opthalmogist (who can examine your eyes for uveal melanoma), and OBGYN. I was only 29 when diagnosed and this experience taught me to be proactive and vigialnt with all aspects of my health. All the best for your health as you move forward! 

I have been clear of melanoma for five years now after having a melanoma stage 1 lesions excised from my upper arm. I've had many scares over the years and have always gone to the derm ASAP to have the mole/spot removed. In fact, I had a linear lesion removed from my finger and one from my scalp last year. In my opinion, you have to be your own health advocate when dealing with melanoma despite what your primary doctor may be telling you. Granted I am writing from the USA where I can go to a specialist with my insurance without a referral, but I've lived in Germany and Canada, which have similar health systems to the UK. If it's a similar procedure,I understand that you can find a new GP who is willing to refer you or opt to have it biopsied privately. A British friend of mine had this done because she did not want to wait for a referral and she paid approximately 800 pounds, but in the end, this saved her life, as it turned out to be cancerous. I wish you all the best for your health!